Google Pays $5B to Settle Incognito Mode Spying Allegations

Google has agreed to settle a $5 billion lawsuit alleging that it continued to track users even when they were using the 'incognito mode' in Google Chrome, which is supposed to offer privacy. The terms of the settlement have not been disclosed, but the lawsuit sought $5,000 in damages per user for violations of federal wiretapping and California privacy laws. The settlement is pending a judge's approval, expected to be presented in early 2024. This legal issue is one of several recent challenges for Google, including a guilty verdict for maintaining an illegal monopoly over the Google Play Store and an ongoing case with the DOJ regarding alleged monopolistic practices.